Accordion (acordeão)

Bigger, more sophisticated version of the Concertina. Both these instruments are part of the sound of Portugal. They add their characteristic timbre or tone quality to several popular Portuguese musical genres. See Concertina for the differences between them.

Both these instruments are early 19th century inventions, originating in Germany and/or England. They required an industrial economy to accurately and economically make the metal reeds that produce the sound. Mass produced concertinas and accordions were a huge success, rapidly spreading round the world and making their way into both popular and salon music.

In Portugal and Cabo Verde accordions and concertinas are still popular, adding their characteristic sound to musical genres including Pimba, Desgarrada and Alentejan music, plus Funana in Cabo Verde. Notable artists include Celina da Piedade (Alentejo).

Alentejo

(pronounced alenTAYjzhoo) is a large, mainly agricultural, region to the south and east of the Tejo (Tagus) river. It is dry, very hot in Summer and fairly sparsely populated, but supports grain, cork and eucalyptus farming. It is famous for its wild flowers in Spring.

The region faces Spain to the East. The Spanish side is mountainous, and even more arid and empty, except where rivers puncture the landscape. Portuguese castles, notably at Elvas, block the historic invasion routes.

Characteristic musical activities include male choral singing in a distinctive Alentejan style (Cante Alentejano), country singing with an almost American twang, and accordion music. Noted alentejanos (not capitalised in Portuguese) include accordionist and singer Celina da Piedade and the veteran Vitorino.

Portugal's agricultural areas all have active festival calendars, and Alentejo is no exception. Traditional dancing and singing is alive and well, while Pimba